Fluid Coupling Tools

Abstract

A fluid coupling tool is disclosed that can be aligned with and rotatably connected to a fluid coupling, wherein the fluid coupling tool can include a passage and an engagement mechanism for engaging with the fluid coupling, wherein when the fluid coupling tool is separated from the fluid coupling, the fluid coupling tool can move longitudinally toward and away from the fluid coupling and can rotate about the longitudinal axis of the passage relative to the fluid coupling, and when a portion of the fluid coupling tool and the fluid coupling are rotatably aligned and longitudinally overlapping, the fluid coupling tool can move longitudinally relative to the fluid coupling, and when the fluid coupling tool is rotated about the longitudinal axis of the passage, the fluid coupling is rotated.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to the transfer of medical fluids, and more particularly to devices and systems for connecting and disconnecting fluid couplings used to make leak-tight connections in medical and laboratory instruments. [Background technology]

[0002] Medical procedures may require the intravenous (IV) administration of fluids, such as medications, via gravity-fed IV bags, programmable pumps, or injections. For example, saline is commonly administered intravenously to patients who are unable to take fluids orally or who may be severely dehydrated.

[0003] To administer fluids and / or medications intravenously, a catheter is often inserted into a patient's vein and its proximal end is connected to medical tubing. The medical tubing is then connected to a source of medical fluid, such as an IV bag. The combination of medical tubing, fittings, and connectors is commonly referred to as an "IV set."

[0004] The fittings between parts of an IV set, such as between tubing and catheters, can include fluid fittings with Luer tapers, a standardized system of small-scale fluid fittings used to make leak-tight connections between male taper fittings and their female counterparts on medical and laboratory instruments.

[0005] IV fluid administration may occur at periodic intervals over an extended period of time, and patient treatment may require additional delivery of other therapeutic fluids. In some cases, fluid couplings between portions of an IV set are disconnected to change medications, change IV sets, or allow the patient to be ambulated without being connected to an IV set.

[0006] In some cases, a disinfectant is applied to the fluid coupling to prevent contamination within the IV set, which could result in a patient infection when disconnecting or replacing the fluid coupling between portions of the IV set. The application of the disinfectant can cause friction or adhesion between the fluid couplings, which can increase resistance to disconnecting or unscrewing the fluid couplings. Similarly, factors such as the small cross-sectional width of the fluid coupling, the proximity of the fluid coupling to the patient's body, and taping of the catheter and / or portions of the fluid coupling to the patient can limit the ability to apply torque to the fluid coupling, making it difficult to disconnect or unscrewing the fluid coupling.

[0007] In some cases, if a fluid coupling is connected or disconnected using improper procedures or tools, for example, using scissors, forceps, hemostats, or hemostats to apply torque to the fluid coupling to connect and disconnect it, damage can occur to the fluid coupling, tubing, catheter, or other parts of the medical fluid system. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] In accordance with at least some embodiments disclosed herein, it has been recognized that using improper procedures or tools to connect or disconnect a fluid coupling can result in injury to the caregiver and patient, as well as damage to the fluid coupling or other portions of the fluid delivery system. For example, a caregiver or patient can sustain injuries caused by using a hemostat or other tool on the fluid coupling, a caregiver can become fatigued and injured while attempting to apply torque to the fluid coupling, and a patient can become infected if the fluid pathway becomes contaminated. Additionally, the fluid coupling and other portions of the fluid delivery system can be damaged by using unintended tools and improper techniques to connect or disconnect the fluid coupling. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] Accordingly, certain aspects of the present disclosure provide a fluid coupling tool for connecting or disconnecting fluid couplings of a fluid delivery system, such as an IV set or a fluid delivery system used in medical and laboratory instruments, while increasing efficiency, reducing the possibility of injury to a caregiver or patient, and avoiding damage to the fluid coupling or other parts of the fluid delivery system.

[0010] In some aspects of the present disclosure, a fluid coupling tool is disclosed that includes a body having a first end, a second end, an inner surface forming a passage extending through the body between the first end and the second end, and a first engagement mechanism having a first wall extending from the inner surface of the passage along a length extending from the first end toward the second end of the body, the passage configured to receive at least a portion of a fluid coupling therein, the first engagement mechanism engaging an outer surface of the fluid coupling and rotatably coupling the body and the fluid coupling such that the first engagement mechanism is configured to rotate the fluid coupling when the body is rotated about a longitudinal axis of the passage.

[0011] Some examples of the present disclosure provide a fluid coupling system comprising: a fluid coupling having a proximal end portion, a distal end portion, an opening extending between the proximal and distal end portions, and a tab extending away from an outer surface of the fluid coupling, the tab being disposed adjacent the proximal end; and a fluid coupling tool comprising: a body having a first end, a second end, an inner surface forming a passage extending through the body between the first and second ends, and a first engagement mechanism having a first wall extending from the inner surface of the passage, the fluid coupling tool having a first configuration spaced apart from the fluid coupling such that the fluid coupling tool is rotatable relative to the fluid coupling; and a second configuration in which at least a portion of the fluid coupling is disposed within the fluid coupling tool and the first engagement mechanism engages with the tab such that the fluid coupling rotates with the body when the body is rotated about a longitudinal axis of the passage.

[0012] The present disclosure also provides a method of disconnecting a fluid coupling, the method including: placing tubing through a passage of a fluid coupling tool; moving the fluid coupling tool longitudinally along the length of the tubing toward the fluid coupling so that a tab of the fluid coupling is at least partially positioned within the passage; and rotating the fluid coupling tool about a longitudinal axis of the passage relative to the fluid coupling to engage a first wall of the fluid coupling tool with the tab of the fluid coupling so that the fluid coupling rotates together with the fluid coupling tool.

[0013] Thus, the present application addresses several operational challenges faced with conventional fluid coupling connections and provides a number of improvements that allow users to more easily and accurately connect and disconnect fluid couplings.

[0014] Additional features and advantages of the subject technology will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the subject technology. The advantages of the subject technology will be realized and attained by the structure particularly pointed out in the written description and the embodiments herein, as well as the accompanying drawings.

[0015] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the subject technology.

[0016] Various features of exemplary embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the drawings, which are intended to illustrate, but not limit, the present invention. The drawings include the following figures: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0017] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a fluid coupling tool for use with an IV set connected to a patient according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a fluid coupling tool connected to a length of tubing and separated from a fluid coupling according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a fluid coupling tool connected to a length of tubing and engaged to a fluid coupling according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a fluid coupling tool according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is an elevational cross-sectional view of the fluid coupling tool of FIG. 4 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a detailed view of a profile of a passageway and engagement feature of a fluid coupling tool according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a detailed view of a profile of a passageway and engagement feature of a fluid coupling tool according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a detailed view of a profile of a passageway and engagement feature of a fluid coupling tool according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a detailed view of a profile of a passageway and engagement feature of a fluid coupling tool according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a detailed view of a profile of a passageway and engagement feature of a fluid coupling tool according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a detailed view of a profile of a passageway and engagement feature of a fluid coupling tool according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a detailed view of a profile of a passageway and engagement feature of a fluid coupling tool according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a fluid coupling according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a fluid coupling according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a detailed cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a fluid coupling according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a detailed cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a fluid coupling according to aspects of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the subject technology. It should be understood that the subject technology may be practiced without some of these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and techniques have not been shown in detail in order to avoid obscuring the subject technology.

[0019] Furthermore, while the present description sets forth specific details of various embodiments, it will be appreciated that the description is illustrative only and should not be construed as limiting in any way. In addition, while particular embodiments of the present disclosure may be disclosed or illustrated in the context of an IV set, it is contemplated that such embodiments may be used in other fluid delivery systems. Still further, various applications of and modifications to such embodiments that may occur to those skilled in the art are also encompassed by the general concepts described herein.

[0020] According to some embodiments, the present application discloses various features and advantages of a fluid coupling tool. The fluid coupling tool increases the potential torque that can be applied to the fluid coupling, thereby more efficiently and safely connecting and disconnecting the fluid coupling. The present disclosure also minimizes the possibility of injury to a caregiver or patient when connecting or disconnecting the fluid coupling, and minimizes the possibility of damage to the fluid coupling or other parts of the fluid delivery system. For example, the fluid coupling tool can provide a solution for safely and efficiently connecting or disconnecting a fluid coupling, as opposed to connecting or disconnecting the fluid coupling by directly grasping the fluid coupling with a hand or using a tool not intended for use with the fluid coupling.

[0021] 1 illustrates an example of a fluid coupling tool 100 in use according to aspects of the present disclosure. The fluid coupling tool 100 is coupled to tubing of an IV set being used to deliver fluid to a patient 10. The IV set includes a medication bag 12, a drip chamber 14, tubing 16, an IV catheter 18, and a fluid coupling 200.

[0022] Fluid coupling 200 fluidly connects tubing 16 to IV catheter 18. To disconnect the IV set from patient 10, fluid coupling 200 can be separated from IV catheter 18. In some examples, fluid coupling 200 is separated from IV catheter 18 so that medications can be injected directly intravenously into the patient through catheter 18.

[0023] In use, the fluid fitting 200 may be connected to the IV catheter 18 by an intervening threaded surface, a twist-lock structure on the fluid fitting 200 and / or the catheter 18, an interference fit connection between the fluid fitting 200 and the catheter 18, or other structure. In some instances, a disinfectant may be applied to any of the surfaces of the fluid fitting 200 and the IV catheter 18 to prevent infection to the patient.

[0024] The fluid coupling tool 100 is coupled to the tubing 16 between the drip chamber 14 and the fluid coupling 16. To couple the fluid coupling tool 100 to the tubing, a length of tubing can be inserted into the passageway of the fluid coupling tool 100 prior to connecting the IV set to the patient. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the fluid coupling tool 100 can be coupled to the tubing after the IV set has been connected to the patient, for example, by laterally inserting the tubing 16 into the passageway of the fluid coupling tool 100.

[0025] The fluid coupling tool 100 may be coupled to the tubing 16 and positioned away from the fluid coupling 200, as shown in FIG. 2 . When coupled to the tubing, a portion of the tubing 18 extends through a passageway in the fluid coupling tool 100 to the fluid coupling 200. When the fluid coupling tool 100 is coupled to the tubing 16 and away from the fluid coupling 200, the fluid coupling tool 100 may be moved along the tubing 16 toward or away from the fluid coupling 200. In some aspects of the present disclosure, the fluid coupling tool 100 may be rotated around the tubing when the fluid coupling tool 100 is away from the fluid coupling 200.

[0026] To connect or disconnect between the fluid coupling 200 and another device, the fluid coupling tool 100 may be moved along the tubing 16 in a direction toward the fluid coupling 200 until the fluid coupling tool 100 engages the fluid coupling 200. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the fluid coupling tool 100 is moved until a portion of the fluid coupling 200 is disposed within the fluid coupling tool 100, as shown in FIG. 3. In some aspects of the present disclosure, the fluid coupling tool 100 and / or the fluid coupling 200 are moved toward one another until at least a portion of the fluid coupling tool 100 or the fluid coupling 200 overlaps the other of the fluid coupling tool 100 or the fluid coupling 200.

[0027] 3 shows the fluid coupling tool 100 and fluid coupling 200 positioned with a proximal portion of the fluid coupling 200 within the passageway of the fluid coupling tool 100. To allow the proximal portion of the fluid coupling 200 to be inserted into the passageway of the fluid coupling tool 100, the fluid coupling tool 100 can be rotated in a first direction D1 or a second direction D2 about the tubing 16 until the engagement features of the fluid coupling tool 100 align with the complementary features of the fluid coupling 200. The complementary features of the fluid coupling 200 can include any of a tab, protrusion, pin, ledge, pin, convex surface, concave surface, groove, notch, channel, or structure.

[0028] When the fluid coupling tool 100 is positioned with the engagement features of the fluid coupling tool in rotational and longitudinal alignment with the complementary features of the fluid coupling 200, the engagement features of the fluid coupling tool 100 can be engaged with the complementary features of the fluid coupling 200 by rotating the fluid coupling tool 100 about the longitudinal axis A1 of the passage relative to the fluid coupling 200. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the engagement features of the fluid coupling tool 100 engage with an outer surface of the fluid coupling 200.

[0029] When the fluid coupling tool 100 is rotated with the engagement features rotationally and longitudinally aligned with the complementary features of the fluid coupling 200, the fluid coupling tool 100 and the fluid coupling 200 become rotatably coupled so that they can rotate together about a common axis, such as the longitudinal axis A1.

[0030] In some aspects of the present disclosure, the rotatably coupled fluid coupling tool 100 and fluid coupling 200 can be rotated in a first direction D1 to connect the fluid coupling 200 to a catheter 18 or another device, and the rotatably coupled fluid coupling tool 100 and fluid coupling 200 can be rotated in a second direction D2 to disconnect the fluid coupling 200 from the catheter 18 or other device, where the second direction D2 is opposite to the first direction D1.

[0031] Although the fluid coupling tool 100 and fluid coupling 200 are described using features of an IV set, it should be understood that the features of the present disclosure may be used with other fluid delivery systems, instruments, implements, and / or devices.

[0032] 4, there is shown a fluid coupling tool 100. The fluid coupling tool 100 may have a body 112 having a first end 114, a second end 116, and an interior surface 118 defining a passageway 120 extending through the body 112 between the first end 116 and the second end 118.

[0033] The passageway 120 defines a longitudinal axis A1 extending through the passageway 120 between a first end and a second end. The passageway 120 defines a cross-sectional profile transverse to the passageway longitudinal axis that defines a passageway area and has a width W0 (FIG. 6). The passageway width W0 can be equal to or greater than the width of the tubing 16. The cross-sectional profile is configured to a size and / or shape that allows the tubing 16 to be inserted therethrough.

[0034] The fluid coupling tool 100 has a first wall 122 extending from an inner surface 118 of the passageway and includes a first engagement feature 124 configured to engage the fluid coupling. The first wall 122 extends along a length L1 from the first end 114 toward the second end 116 of the body. The length L1 of the first wall 122 is oriented in a direction substantially parallel to the direction of the longitudinal axis A1 through the passageway. In some embodiments, the length L1 of the first wall 122 extends from the first end 114 to the second end 116 of the body.

[0035] The first wall 122 extends from the passageway inner surface 118 away from the passageway 120 to define a width W1. Because the first wall 122 extends from the passageway inner surface 118 away from the passageway 120 along the width W1, the width of the passageway 120 at the first engagement feature 124 is greater than the width of the passageway 120 adjacent to the first wall 122. As such, the area defined by the cross-sectional profile of the passageway is greater than the area defined by the cross-sectional profile defined by the channel. The greater width of the passageway at the first engagement feature 124 may allow for the insertion of complementary features of the fluid coupling 200, such as protrusions or tabs.

[0036] The first engagement feature 124 is in the form of a channel having a first wall 122 and a second wall 126, as shown, for example, in Figures 4 and 5, where Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view of Figure 4 taken along line 5-5. The first wall 122 and the second wall 126 extend from the inner surface 118 of the passageway in a direction away from the longitudinal axis A1 to form at least a portion of the first engagement feature 124. To form the first engagement feature 124, the first wall 122 and the second wall 126 can intersect with each other to define the channel of the first engagement feature 124.

[0037] In some aspects of the present disclosure, a third wall 128 extends between the first wall 122 and the second wall 126 to define a channel for the first engagement feature 124. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the channel can have a cross-sectional profile transverse to the longitudinal axis A1, where the cross-sectional profile of the channel forms any of a concave shape, a U-shape, a V-shape, etc.

[0038] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the fluid coupling tool 100 may include a second engagement feature 134 configured to allow for insertion of another complementary feature of the fluid coupling 200, such as another protrusion or tab. The second engagement feature 134 may provide additional surface area for engagement with the fluid coupling, thereby allowing for the application of greater torque to the fluid coupling compared to a fluid coupling tool 100 having a single engagement feature.

[0039] The second engagement feature 134 may include features that are the same as or similar to the first engagement feature 124, including, but not limited to, a first wall, a second wall, and a third wall, although it should be understood that the first engagement feature 124 and the second engagement feature 134 may have any of the same shapes and sizes, or the first engagement feature 124 and the second engagement feature 134 may each have different shapes and / or sizes.

[0040] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the fluid coupling tool 100 may include one or more engagement features having different shapes and orientations. For example, Figures 6-12 show cross-sectional profiles of fluid coupling tools having engagement features of various shapes and orientations.

[0041] FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional profile of a passageway 120 of a fluid coupling tool having a first engagement feature 124 and a second engagement feature 134. The first engagement feature 124 and the second engagement feature 134 are spaced apart in approximately opposite directions about the longitudinal axis A1 of the passageway. In some embodiments, the first engagement feature 124 and the second engagement feature 134 are spaced apart between approximately 1 and 180 degrees about the longitudinal axis A1 of the passageway. In some aspects of the present disclosure, the first engagement feature 124 and the second engagement feature 134 are spaced apart between approximately 45 and 135 degrees about the longitudinal axis A1 of the passageway. In some examples, the first engagement feature 124 and the second engagement feature 134 are spaced apart between approximately 90 degrees about the longitudinal axis A1 of the passageway.

[0042] 7 shows a cross-sectional profile of a passageway 120 having a first engagement feature 124, a second engagement feature 134, and a third engagement feature 136. The third engagement feature 136 is disposed between the first engagement feature 124 and the second engagement feature 134. In some embodiments, the first engagement feature 124, the second engagement feature 134, and the third engagement feature 136 are equally spaced apart about the longitudinal axis A1 of the passageway. In some aspects of the present disclosure, the first engagement feature 124, the second engagement feature 134, and the third engagement feature 136 can be spaced apart at different distances about the longitudinal axis A1 of the passageway.

[0043] 8, a cross-sectional profile of a passageway 120 is shown having a first engagement feature 124, a second engagement feature 134, a third engagement feature 136, and a fourth engagement feature 138. Each of the first engagement feature 124, the second engagement feature 134, the third engagement feature 136, and the fourth engagement feature 138 may be equally spaced apart about the longitudinal axis A1. In some embodiments, the first engagement feature 124, the second engagement feature 134, the third engagement feature 136, and the fourth engagement feature 138 may be spaced apart at different distances about the longitudinal axis A1 of the passageway.

[0044] FIG. 9 shows a cross-sectional profile of a passageway 120 having a slot shape formed by a first engagement feature 124, where the first engagement feature 124 has a width extending in opposite directions transverse to the axis A1.

[0045] FIG. 10 illustrates a cross-sectional profile of a passageway 120 having an engagement feature 142 formed by multiple walls. Each wall can have a width extending transversely to the axis A1. The wall width can extend in a linear direction and intersect with two adjacent walls. In some aspects of the present disclosure, six walls are spaced apart by approximately equal angles to form a hexagonal shape. In some embodiments, the engagement feature 144 is formed by an inner surface of the passageway having multiple walls that are convex in shape, as shown in the cross-sectional profile of the passageway 120 in FIG. 11. Each wall has a width extending in a direction that curves away from the axis A1.

[0046] 12 illustrates a cross-sectional profile of a passageway 120 having an engagement feature 165 formed at least in part by a wall extending from an inner surface of the passageway toward the longitudinal axis A1. The engagement feature 166 may be formed by a first wall 168 and a second wall 169 extending into the passageway and a third wall 170 extending between the first wall 168 and the second wall 169. In some embodiments, the first engagement feature 165 and the second engagement feature 166 may extend into the passageway toward the longitudinal axis A1. The first engagement feature 165 and the second engagement feature 166 may be configured to extend into a channel of the fluid coupling when the fluid coupling and the fluid coupling tool 100 are moved toward one another.

[0047] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, such as the embodiment shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the fluid coupling tool 100 may be configured to clamp or compress a length of tubing 16.

[0048] To compress a length of tubing, the fluid coupling tool 100 includes a first arm 180 and a second arm 182 engageable with a length of tubing extending within the fluid coupling tool. The first arm 180 and the second arm 182 define a cavity 184 having an inner surface continuous with the passageway 120 such that the longitudinal axis A1 of the passageway extends through the cavity 182. In use, a length of tubing can be inserted through the passageway 120 and the cavity 184 to extend completely through the fluid coupling tool 100.

[0049] First arm 180 extends away from body 112, and second arm 182 extends from first arm 180 toward body 112. Any of first arm 180 and second arm 182 are movable relative to each other and body 112 to increase or decrease the distance between the inner surfaces of first arm 180 and second arm 182.

[0050] The second arm 182 may be movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the inner surface 188 of the second arm is disposed along the cavity 184 to define a first cross-sectional clearance between the inner surface 188 of the second arm and the inner surface 186 of the first arm. In the second position, the second arm 182 is moved in a direction D3 toward the first arm 180 to define a second cross-sectional clearance between the inner surface 188 of the second arm and the inner surface 186 of the first arm, where the second cross-sectional clearance is smaller than the first cross-sectional clearance.

[0051] In some aspects of the present disclosure, when second arm 182 is in the second position, at least a portion of second arm 182 extends into cavity 184, changing the cross-sectional profile of cavity 184 relative to when second arm 182 is in the first position. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, each of first arm 180 and second arm 182 extends away from body, and any one of first arm 180 and second arm 182 can be movable in a direction toward the other of first arm 180 and second arm 182.

[0052] An embodiment of a fluid coupling is shown in Figure 13. The fluid coupling 200, or a portion thereof, is configured to be received within a passageway of the fluid coupling tool 100 such that the fluid coupling 200 and the fluid coupling tool 100 become rotatably coupled when the fluid coupling tool 100 is rotated relative to the fluid coupling 200. Although an embodiment of a fluid coupling is described in this disclosure, it should be understood that the fluid coupling tool 100 can be used with other fluid couplings and connectors, where the fluid coupling tool 100 is adapted to engage and rotatably couple to the fluid coupling.

[0053] Fluid coupling 200 may include a proximal end portion 204, a distal end portion 206, and an opening 208 extending between proximal end portion 204 and distal end portion 206. An end portion of the fluid coupling, for example proximal end portion 204, may be connected to a length of tubing such that opening 208 is in fluid communication with the tubing.

[0054] The fluid coupling 200 includes tabs 210 extending away from the outer surface of the fluid coupling and configured to engage engagement features of the fluid coupling tool 100. In some aspects of the present disclosure, the tabs 210 are configured such that the fluid coupling tool 100 can move relative to the fluid coupling 200 along the longitudinal axis A2 of the fluid coupling independently of the fluid coupling 200. However, when the fluid coupling tool 100 is rotated about the longitudinal axis A2, the engagement features of the fluid coupling tool 100 engage the tabs 210 to rotatably couple the fluid coupling tool 100 and the fluid coupling 200.

[0055] The tab 210 is positioned along the proximal end portion 204 of the fluid coupling such that an engagement feature of the fluid coupling tool 100 can engage the tab 210 when the proximal end portion 204 of the fluid coupling is positioned within the passageway of the fluid coupling tool 100. The tab 210 has a width W2 extending radially outward from the outer surface of the fluid coupling in a direction away from the longitudinal axis A2. The tab 210 also has a length L2 extending along the outer surface of the fluid coupling in a direction from the proximal portion 204 toward the distal end portion 206 of the fluid coupling. Additionally, the tab 210 has a height H2 extending along the outer surface of the fluid coupling in a direction transverse to the width W2 and length L2 of the tab. The width W2 and height H2 of the tab are approximately equal to or less than the width W1 and height H1 of the engagement feature of the fluid coupling tool 100.

[0056] In some embodiments, the fluid coupling includes a second tab 212, wherein the first tab 210 and the second tab 212 are each configured to align with and be received within the first engagement feature 124 and the second engagement feature 134, respectively, of the fluid coupling tool.

[0057] Any of the first tab 210 and the second tab 212 can be positioned along the proximal and / or distal end portions of the fluid coupling 200, and the fluid coupling tool 100 and the fluid coupling 200 can be moved toward each other until the first tab 210 and the second tab 212 are longitudinally aligned with the engagement features of the fluid coupling tool 100.

[0058] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the engagement features and tabs may be configured to require rotational alignment of the fluid coupling tool 100 relative to the fluid coupling before the fluid coupling tool 100 can be rotatably coupled with the fluid coupling. For example, the fluid coupling tool 100 may need to be rotated until the first engagement feature 124 is rotationally aligned with the first tab 210 and the second engagement feature 134 is rotationally aligned with the second tab 212 before the fluid coupling 200 can be received within the passageway.

[0059] To require rotational alignment of the fluid coupling tool 100 and the fluid coupling, the first engagement feature 124 can have a width W1 and / or height H1 that is different from the width and / or height of the second engagement feature 134, and the first tab 210 can have a width W2 and / or height H2 that is different from the width and / or height of the second tab 212. Thus, any of the fluid coupling tools 100 and fluid couplings can resist coupling between the engagement features 124, 134 without the engagement features 124, 134 being aligned with the complementary first and second tabs 210, 212.

[0060] 14, there is shown an embodiment of a fluid coupling 202 having a movement limiting mechanism that can resist unintended movement of the fluid coupling tool 100 toward the distal end of the fluid coupling 202. Other features of the fluid coupling 202 that are similar or the same as those shown and described with reference to the fluid coupling 200 will be described herein with like reference numerals for clarity and brevity.

[0061] A protrusion can extend from the outer surface of the fluid coupling to resist unintentional movement of the fluid coupling tool 100 toward the distal end 206 of the fluid coupling. The protrusion can be formed by a tab 220 of the fluid coupling 202 having a first portion 224 having a first width W3 and a second portion 226 having a second width W4, where the second width W4 is greater than the first width. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the fluid coupling 202 can include two or more tabs, such as a second tab 222 spaced from the first tab 220.

[0062] The first width W3 is approximately equal to or less than the width W1 of the engagement feature of the fluid coupling tool 100. In use, the fluid coupling tool 100 and the fluid coupling 202 can be moved toward one another until the first portion 224 is disposed within the engagement feature of the fluid coupling tool 100. As the fluid coupling tool 100 and the fluid coupling 202 are further moved toward one another, the fluid coupling tool 100 can engage the second portion 226 of the tab 220, thereby resisting further movement of the fluid coupling tool 100 toward the distal end 206 of the fluid coupling.

[0063] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the longitudinal movement limiting feature may be formed by a protrusion spaced apart from the tabs 220, 222. Thus, when the tabs 220, 222 are positioned within the engagement feature of the fluid coupling tool, further longitudinal movement of the fluid coupling tool along the fluid coupling 202 may be resisted by the engagement of the fluid coupling tool with the longitudinal movement limiting feature.

[0064] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, any of the engagement features of the fluid coupling tool 100 and the tabs of the fluid coupling 200 may have tapered widths to resist longitudinal movement therebetween. In some embodiments, the width W1 of the first wall of the engagement feature tapers or decreases in a direction away from the first end 114 of the fluid coupling, and the width W2 of the tab increases in a direction away from the proximal end portion 204 of the fluid coupling.

[0065] 15, the proximal end portion 204 of an embodiment of a fluid coupling 230 is shown in cross section. The fluid coupling 230 can have tabs extending from the end of the fluid coupling. The proximal end portion can include a proximal end 236, a first tab 231, and a second tab 232. The first tab 231 and the second tab 232 extend from the proximal end 236 of the fluid coupling in a direction away from the distal end of the fluid coupling. In some aspects of the present disclosure, the first tab 231 and the second tab 232 extend in a direction away from the distal end of the fluid coupling and are generally parallel to the longitudinal axis A2 of the fluid coupling.

[0066] In use, the fluid coupling tool 100 and the fluid coupling can be moved toward one another until the tabs 231, 232 are positioned within the engagement features of the fluid coupling tool 100. When the fluid coupling tool 100 is rotated about the longitudinal axis A1, the engagement features of the fluid coupling tool 100 engage with the tabs 231, 232 to rotatably couple the fluid coupling tool 100 and the fluid coupling.

[0067] 16, the proximal end portion 204 of the fluid coupling 240 is shown in cross section. The fluid coupling 240 may have notches extending into the outer surface of the fluid coupling toward the longitudinal axis A2. The proximal end portion 204 includes a proximal end 236, a first notch 241, and a second notch 242. The first notch 241 and the second notch 242 extend away from the proximal end 236 of the fluid coupling and are generally parallel to the longitudinal axis A2 of the fluid coupling.

[0068] Each of the first notch 241 and the second notch 242 extends along a portion of the periphery defined by the outer surface of the fluid coupling 240. In use, the fluid coupling tool can be rotated until the tabs of the fluid coupling tool are aligned with any of the first notch 241 and the second notch 242. Once the tabs of the fluid coupling tool are aligned with the notches of the fluid coupling, the fluid coupling tool can be moved further along the fluid coupling to rotatably couple the tabs of the fluid coupling tool with the notches of the fluid coupling.

[0069] Examples of subject matter art as clauses The subject technology is exemplified by various aspects described below, for example. Various examples of aspects of the subject technology are described as numbered clauses (1, 2, 3, etc.) for convenience. These are provided as examples and do not limit the subject technology. Any of the dependent clauses may be combined in any combination and incorporated into the respective independent clause, e.g., clause 1 or clause 5. Other clauses may be presented similarly.

[0070] Clause 1. A fluid coupling tool comprising: a body having a first end, a second end, an inner surface forming a passageway extending through the body between the first end and the second end; and a first engagement mechanism having a first wall extending from the inner surface of the passageway along a length extending from the first end toward the second end of the body, the passageway being configured to receive at least a portion of a fluid coupling therein; the first engagement mechanism engaging an outer surface of the fluid coupling and rotatably coupling the body and the fluid coupling such that the first engagement mechanism is configured to rotate the fluid coupling when the body is rotated about a longitudinal axis of the passageway.

[0071] Clause 2. A fluid coupling tool as described in Clause 1, wherein the first wall extends in a first direction from the first end to the second end of the body, and the passage extends in a second direction from the first end to the second end of the body, and the first direction and the second direction are parallel to each other.

[0072] Clause 3. The fluid coupling tool of any one of clauses 1 and 2, wherein the first wall extends from the inner surface in a direction away from the passageway.

[0073] Clause 4. A fluid coupling tool according to any one of clauses 1 to 3, wherein the first wall extends from the inner surface in a direction towards the passage.

[0074] Clause 5. The fluid coupling tool of clause 4, further comprising a second wall extending from the interior surface of the passageway and intersecting the first wall.

[0075] Clause 6. The fluid coupling tool of clause 5, wherein the first wall and the second wall form a channel of the engagement mechanism.

[0076] Clause 7. A fluid coupling tool as described in clause 6, wherein the passage has a cross-sectional profile transverse to a longitudinal axis of the passage and defining a passage area, and the channel has a cross-sectional profile transverse to a longitudinal axis of the passage and defining a channel area, the passage area being greater than the channel area.

[0077] Clause 8. The fluid coupling tool of clause 5, further comprising a third wall extending between the first wall and the second wall.

[0078] Clause 9. A fluid coupling tool as described in any one of clauses 1 to 8, further comprising a second engagement mechanism spaced from the first engagement mechanism about the longitudinal axis of the passageway.

[0079] Clause 10. A fluid coupling tool as described in any one of clauses 1 to 9, wherein the body has a first arm and a second arm having an inner surface forming a cavity that is continuous with the passage, and the longitudinal axis of the passage extends through the cavity.

[0080] Clause 11. A fluid coupling tool as described in Clause 10, wherein the second arm is movable between a first position and a second position, and in the first position, an inner surface of the first arm is positioned along the cavity to define a first cross-sectional clearance, and in the second position, at least a portion of the first arm extends into the cavity to define a second cross-sectional clearance different from the first cross-sectional clearance, thereby changing the cross-sectional profile of the cavity.

[0081] Clause 12. The fluid coupling tool of clause 11, wherein at least a portion of the second arm extends into the cavity when the second arm is in the second position.

[0082] Clause 13. A fluid coupling tool according to any one of clauses 1 to 12, wherein the first wall is configured to engage the fluid coupling to rotate the fluid coupling.

[0083] Clause 14. A fluid coupling tool as described in any one of clauses 1 to 13, wherein the body is configured to be slidable along the longitudinal axis of the passage relative to the fluid coupling while remaining rotationally fixed relative to the longitudinal axis of the passage.

[0084] Clause 15. A fluid coupling system comprising: a fluid coupling having a proximal end portion, a distal end portion, an opening extending between the proximal and distal ends, and a tab extending away from an outer surface of the fluid coupling, the tab being disposed adjacent the proximal end; and a fluid coupling tool comprising: a body having a first end, a second end, an inner surface forming a passageway extending through the body between the first and second ends, and a first engagement mechanism having a first wall extending from the inner surface of the passageway, the fluid coupling tool having a first configuration spaced apart from the fluid coupling such that the fluid coupling tool is rotatable relative to the fluid coupling; and a second configuration wherein at least a portion of the fluid coupling is disposed within the fluid coupling tool, and the first engagement mechanism engages with the tab such that the fluid coupling rotates with the body when the body is rotated about a longitudinal axis of the passageway.

[0085] Clause 16. The fluid coupling system of clause 15, wherein the outer surface of the distal end portion of the fluid coupling comprises a luer taper.

[0086] Clause 17. A fluid coupling system as described in any one of clauses 15 and 16, wherein the outer surface of the distal end portion of the fluid coupling is provided with threads.

[0087] Clause 18. A fluid coupling system as described in any one of clauses 15 to 17, further comprising tubing, the tubing being connected to an opening in the fluid coupling and extending through a passage in the fluid coupling tool such that the fluid coupling tool is movable longitudinally along the tubing relative to the fluid coupling.

[0088] Clause 19. A fluid coupling system as described in any one of clauses 15 to 18, wherein the body comprises a first arm and a second arm having an inner surface forming a cavity that is continuous with the passage, the longitudinal axis of the passage extending through the cavity.

[0089] Clause 20. The fluid coupling system of clause 19, wherein the second arm is movable between a first position and a second position, and in the first position, an inner surface of the second arm is positioned along the cavity to define a first cross-sectional clearance, and in the second position, at least a portion of the second arm extends into the cavity to define a second cross-sectional clearance different from the first cross-sectional clearance, thereby changing the cross-sectional profile of the cavity.

[0090] Clause 21. A fluid coupling system as described in Clause 20, wherein when the second arm is in a first position, the body is slidable along tubing connected to the fluid coupling, and when in a second position, the second arm is engaged against the tubing to resist movement of the body relative to the tubing.

[0091] Clause 22. A method of disconnecting a fluid coupling, the method comprising: placing tubing through a passage of a fluid coupling tool; moving the fluid coupling tool longitudinally along the length of the tubing toward the fluid coupling so that a tab of the fluid coupling is at least partially disposed within the passage; and rotating the fluid coupling tool about a longitudinal axis of the passage relative to the fluid coupling to engage a first wall of the fluid coupling tool against the tab of the fluid coupling so that the fluid coupling rotates with the fluid coupling tool.

[0092] Further Considerations In some embodiments, any of the clauses herein may depend on any of the independent clauses or any of the dependent clauses. In one aspect, any of the clauses (e.g., dependent or independent clauses) may be combined with one or more other clauses (e.g., dependent or independent clauses). In one aspect, a claim may include some or all of the words (e.g., steps, actions, means, or components) recited in a clause, sentence, phrase, or paragraph. In one aspect, a claim may include some or all of the words recited in one or more clauses, sentences, phrases, or paragraphs. In one aspect, some of the words in each clause, sentence, phrase, or paragraph may be removed. In one aspect, additional words or elements may be added to a clause, sentence, phrase, or paragraph. In one aspect, the subject technology may be implemented without utilizing some of the components, elements, functions, or operations described herein. In one aspect, the subject technology may be implemented using additional components, elements, functions, or operations.

[0093] This disclosure is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. This disclosure provides various examples of the subject technology, and the subject technology is not limited to these examples. Various modifications of these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other aspects.

[0094] Reference to a singular element is not intended to mean "one and only one," unless specifically so stated, but rather "one or more." Unless otherwise specified, the term "some" refers to one or more. Masculine pronouns (e.g., his) include feminine and neuter pronouns (e.g., her and its), and vice versa. Headings and sub-headings, if present, are used for convenience only and do not limit the invention.

[0095] The word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example or illustration." Any aspect or design described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs. In one aspect, various alternative configurations and operations described herein may be considered at least equivalent.

[0096] The use of a phrase such as "aspect" does not imply that such aspect is essential to the subject technology or that such aspect applies to all configurations of the subject technology. Disclosure relating to an aspect may apply to all configurations, or to one or more configurations. An aspect may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as "an aspect" may refer to one or more aspects, and vice versa. A phrase such as "embodiment" does not imply that such embodiment is essential to the subject technology or that such embodiment applies to all configurations of the subject technology. Disclosure relating to an embodiment may apply to all embodiments, or to one or more embodiments. An embodiment may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as "an embodiment" may refer to one or more embodiments, and vice versa. A phrase such as "configuration" does not imply that such configuration is essential to the subject technology or that such configuration applies to all configurations of the subject technology. Disclosure relating to one configuration may apply to all configurations, or to one or more configurations. A configuration may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as "one configuration" may refer to one or more configurations, and vice versa.

[0097] In one aspect, unless otherwise stated, all measurements, values, estimates, locations, sizes, dimensions, and other specifications set forth in this specification, including the following claims, are approximate and not exact, and are intended to have a reasonable range consistent with the function to which they relate and that which is customary in the art to which they pertain.

[0098] In one aspect, the term "coupled" or the like can refer to being directly coupled. In another aspect, the term "coupled" or the like can refer to being indirectly coupled.

[0099] As used in this disclosure, terms such as "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," etc., should be understood to refer to any frame of reference other than the typical gravity-based frame of reference. Thus, upper, lower, front, and rear surfaces may extend upward, downward, diagonally, or horizontally in a gravity-based frame of reference.

[0100] Various items may be arranged differently (e.g., placed in a different order or divided in a different manner) without departing from the scope of the subject technology. All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the various aspects described throughout this disclosure that are known or later become known to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the claims. Furthermore, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be made available to the public, regardless of whether such disclosure is expressly recited in the claims. No claim element is to be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112, paragraph 6, unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase "means for," or, in the case of a method claim, unless the element is recited using the phrase "step for." Furthermore, with respect to the use of the terms "comprises," "having," and the like, such terms are intended to be as inclusive as "comprising," as the term "comprising" would be interpreted when used as a transitional phrase in a claim.

[0101] The Title, Background, Summary, Brief Description of the Drawings, and Abstract of this Disclosure are hereby incorporated into this disclosure and are provided as illustrative examples of the disclosure, and not as a limiting description. This specification is presented with the understanding that they will not be used to limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Furthermore, in the Detailed Description, it will be understood that the description provides illustrative examples, and that various features are grouped together in various embodiments for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed subject matter requires more features than expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as reflected in the following claims, inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a single disclosed structure or act. The following claims are incorporated herein into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as separately claimed subject matter.

[0102] The claims are not intended to be limited to the embodiments described herein, but are to be accorded the full scope consistent with the claims as written and to encompass all legal equivalents. Nevertheless, no claim is intended to, and should not be construed to, encompass subject matter that does not satisfy the requirements of 35 U.S.C. §§ 101, 102, or 103.

Claims

1. a body having a first end, a second end, an interior surface defining a passageway extending through the body between the first end and the second end, and a first engagement mechanism comprising a first wall extending from the interior surface of the passageway along a length of the body extending from the first end toward the second end; the passageway is configured to receive at least a portion of a fluid coupling therein, and the first engagement mechanism engages an outer surface of the fluid coupling and rotatably couples the body and the fluid coupling such that the first engagement mechanism is configured to rotate the fluid coupling when the body is rotated about a longitudinal axis of the passageway. Fluid coupling tools.

2. 2. The fluid coupling tool of claim 1, wherein the first wall extends in a first direction from the first end to the second end of the body, and the passage extends in a second direction from the first end to the second end of the body, the first direction and second direction being parallel to each other.

3. The fluid coupling tool of claim 1 , wherein the first wall extends from the inner surface in a direction away from the passageway.

4. The fluid coupling tool of claim 1 , wherein the first wall extends from the inner surface in a direction toward the passageway.

5. The fluid coupling tool of claim 4 further comprising a second wall extending from the interior surface of the passageway and intersecting the first wall.

6. The fluid coupling tool of claim 5 , wherein the first wall and the second wall form a channel of the engagement mechanism.

7. 7. The fluid coupling tool of claim 6, wherein the passage has a cross-sectional profile transverse to the longitudinal axis of the passage and defining a passage area, and the channel has a cross-sectional profile transverse to the longitudinal axis of the passage and defining a channel area, the passage area being greater than the channel area.

8. The fluid coupling tool of claim 5 further comprising a third wall extending between the first wall and the second wall.

9. The fluid coupling tool of claim 1 , further comprising a second engagement mechanism spaced from the first engagement mechanism about the longitudinal axis of the passageway.

10. 2. The fluid coupling tool of claim 1, wherein the body comprises a first arm and a second arm having an inner surface that forms a cavity that is continuous with the passageway, the longitudinal axis of the passageway extending through the cavity.

11. 11. The fluid coupling tool of claim 10, wherein the second arm is movable between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position, the inner surface of the first arm is positioned along the cavity to define a first cross-sectional clearance, and in the second position, at least a portion of the first arm extends into the cavity to define a second cross-sectional clearance different from the first cross-sectional clearance, thereby varying a cross-sectional profile of the cavity.

12. The fluid coupling tool of claim 1 , wherein the first wall is configured to engage the fluid coupling to rotate the fluid coupling.

13. The fluid coupling tool of claim 1 , wherein the body is configured to be slidable along the longitudinal axis of the passage relative to the fluid coupling while remaining rotationally fixed relative to the longitudinal axis of the passage.

14. a fluid coupling comprising a proximal end portion, a distal end portion, an opening extending between the proximal end portion and the distal end portion, and a tab extending away from an outer surface of the fluid coupling, the tab being disposed adjacent the proximal end; a fluid coupling tool comprising: a body having a first end, a second end, an interior surface defining a passageway extending through the body between the first end and the second end, and a first engagement feature comprising a first wall extending from the interior surface of the passageway; the fluid coupling tool has a first configuration in which the fluid coupling tool is spaced from the fluid coupling such that the fluid coupling tool is rotatable relative to the fluid coupling, and a second configuration in which at least a portion of the fluid coupling is disposed within the fluid coupling tool and the first engagement mechanism engages the tab such that the fluid coupling rotates with the body when the body is rotated about the longitudinal axis of the passage. Fluid coupling system.

15. 15. The fluid coupling system of claim 14, wherein the outer surface of the distal end portion of the fluid coupling comprises a luer taper.

16. The fluid coupling system of claim 14 , wherein the outer surface of the distal end portion of the fluid coupling comprises threads.

17. 15. The fluid coupling system of claim 14, further comprising tubing coupled to the opening of the fluid coupling and extending through the passage of the fluid coupling tool such that the fluid coupling tool is longitudinally movable along the tubing relative to the fluid coupling.

18. 15. The fluid coupling system of claim 14, wherein the body comprises first and second arms having inner surfaces that form a cavity that is continuous with the passageway, the longitudinal axis of the passageway extending through the cavity.

19. 19. The fluid coupling system of claim 18, wherein the second arm is movable between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position, the inner surface of the second arm is positioned along the cavity to define a first cross-sectional clearance, and in the second position, at least a portion of the second arm extends into the cavity to define a second cross-sectional clearance different from the first cross-sectional clearance, changing a cross-sectional profile of the cavity.

20. A method for disconnecting a fluid coupling, comprising: placing tubing through a passage of a fluid coupling tool; moving the fluid coupling tool longitudinally along the length of the tubing toward the fluid coupling so that a tab of the fluid coupling is at least partially positioned within the passage; and rotating the fluid coupling tool relative to the fluid coupling about a longitudinal axis of the passage to engage a first wall of the fluid coupling tool with the tab of the fluid coupling so that the fluid coupling rotates together with the fluid coupling tool.

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